What does 'qualified' mean in the context of retirement plans and annuities?

A 'qualified' retirement plan is one that meets specific Internal Revenue Code requirements that grant favorable tax treatment: pre-tax contributions (reducing current taxable income), tax-deferred growth (no taxes until withdrawal), and tax-deductible employer contributions. Examples: 401(k), 403(b), traditional IRA, SEP-IRA, SIMPLE IRA, defined benefit pension plans. Qualified plans have contribution limits, distribution rules (typically taxable at withdrawal, penalty if before 59½, required minimum distributions starting at age 73), and may require nondiscrimination testing. Non-qualified plans (deferred compensation, executive bonus plans, non-qualified annuities) have more flexibility but no upfront tax deduction. Roth IRAs and Roth 401(k)s are 'qualified' but use after-tax contributions for tax-free withdrawals.